What do you get when you combine free books, nature, family fun, and the power of reading? Literacy Palooza: Literacy in Nature—a joyful kickoff to the summer and a year-long celebration of literacy across New York City!
In a powerful partnership between ExpandED Lit C.R.E.W., New York City Reads Initiative, and Cypress Hills, families from all over gathered to explore literacy in a way that was anything but ordinary. Set against the theme of the great outdoors, this event invited children and families to discover the magic of reading while connecting with nature—and each other.
What made it magical?
- Families received free books for students in grades K–8, sparking new summer reading adventures.
- Children had the unique chance to meet real authors, have their books personally signed, and hear firsthand the stories behind the stories.
- With help from local libraries, many students were able to get information to sign up for library cards, opening the door to endless stories waiting to be discovered.
- From interactive family workshops to literacy games and crafts, every corner of the event was packed with engaging, hands-on activities.
- Families joined a nature-themed scavenger hunt, turning the space into a living storybook filled with clues, vocabulary, and laughter.
This event wasn’t just a one-time celebration—it was the launch of something BIG! Literacy Palooza is hitting the road, visiting schools and communities all year long through the New York City Reads Initiative, bringing dynamic, culturally relevant, and exciting literacy experiences to the kids who need them most.
Our mission?
To show that reading doesn’t just happen in the classroom—it happens on the playground, at the park, around the dinner table, and everywhere in between.
We’re incredibly proud of this collaboration and grateful to the families, educators, and partners who made this event such a success. Together, we’re growing lifelong readers—one story, one activity, one joyful day at a time.
Stay tuned… Literacy Palooza is coming to a school near you!
